What are some of the specializations within this degree program?

• Theoretical Mathematics: This branch of mathematics focuses on constructing new principles and discovering previously unrecognized connections with already existing principles, expanding knowledge and establishing new theoretical foundations in subfields of math.
• Applied Mathematics: Applied mathematicians use theories and techniques for everyday use to formulate the most practical solutions to real-life problems, such as the quickest airline route between cities or the most efficient economic formulas in contemporary business models.

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What degree levels are available?

• Associate Degree: 2 years to complete
• Bachelor's Degree: 4 years to complete
• Master's Degree: 2 - 3 years to complete
• Doctoral Degree: 4 - 5 years to complete

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What are the educational and certification requirements?

Degrees are available through the PhD level for mathematics, and since most companies require a doctoral degree before an employee is considered for employment, universities have increased the availability of such programs.  Some private businesses and industries do employ those with master's degrees.  Students who are still in high school and planning on becoming mathematics majors are encouraged to take as many math classes as possible before high school graduation, and since some high schools offer AP calculus courses that do transfer to an extent to most universities, courses taken in high school can eliminate the need to take them in college. High school students should get a base in geometry (pi, the Fibonacci sequence, etc.), algebra, and calculus.

Bachelor's degrees are the first step for prospective mathematicians, and many federal government entry level positions usually require this degree or an equivalent of 24 semester hours of mathematics courses.  Bachelor's degrees also allow students to obtain state certification to become primary or secondary mathematics teachers, though higher education like college teaching requires a doctoral degree.  Courses taken during a bachelor's degree normally include calculus, linear and abstract algebra, statistics, differential equations, and discrete and logical mathematics, all taken in sequences of varying length. 

A doctoral degree is the best option for prospective mathematicians, and since most positions in the mathematics employment field are research and development-based, the experience from the dissertation experience gained during the master's and doctoral programs is extremely beneficial.  Doctoral programs normally include specialization in a subfield of mathematics, alongside research and advanced courses.  These doctoral programs normally take place in lab settings and involve highly collaborative team based projects with students from mathematics as well as physics, engineering, and other science-based fields. 

More students are being encouraged to pursue a double major in another closely related field, and this combination is highly appealing to employers.  An additional major in physics, computer science, physical or life science, or economics is particularly useful, since these fields are dependent on and work closely with mathematical applications.

There are state certification requirements for becoming a mathematics teacher, but there are no formal requirements prior to employment in mathematics besides a bachelor's or a doctoral degree.  These state certification requirements are different for each state, and the requirements vary between the levels of schooling being instructed.

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What kinds of classes will I be expected to take?

• Calculus: Though you may have taken some calculus in high school, get ready for a whole other ball game when studying this subject at the level of higher learning. Calculus focuses on such concepts as infinite series, derivatives, and integrals, among other crucial concepts of mathematics. 
• Discrete Mathematics: This class will not teach you how to make calculations under the cover of night or in other surreptitious circumstances. Rather, it's themed on discrete structures, which include integers and graphs. Know that, to this day, mathematicians cannot agree on what exactly is meant by the term "discrete mathematics."
• Linear and Abstract Algebra: Linear algebra is the mathematical study of concepts known as vector spaces; matrix theory is also an important component here. Abstract algebra, in contrast, is a relatively new field of math that incorporates physics and representation theory.
• Numerical Analysis: This class lets you study algorithms and how they can help you investigate the natural world. It is one of the oldest branches of mathematics, and thus carries much importance. 
• Mathematical Logic: Computer science begins to factor into mathematics in a major way when you take this course. Recursion theory and definable sets are some of the watchwords you'll encounter.

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If I pursue this program online, will I be required to complete any on-site training?

The answer to this question is highly dependent on the level of mathematics at which you would like to study. Those looking to earn either an associate or a bachelor's diploma in this field online will likely not have to participate in on-site training or experiences in order to complete the program. Master's and doctoral candidates, however, will probably need to participate in colloquia, internships, and live presentations of their theses and dissertations. 

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What are some other degrees that are related to this program?

Math is used in a wide variety of careers, such as economics, finance, geology, computer science, and behavioral science, among others. Careers more closely related to being a mathematician include computer programming, systems analysis, and systems engineering.

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